Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

6 Lakh+

Satisfied Trekkers

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Years of Experiance

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Quick Information

Trek Duration

7 Days

Trek Difficulty

Easy - Moderate

Trek Group Size

6-12 max

Trek Distance

75 KM

Trek Max Altitude

13,800 Feet

Trek Region

Kashmir

Trek Pickup

Kashmir (Nishat Garden, Srinagar)

Best Season

Summer | Autumn | Monsoon

Best Time

July, September

Trek Basecamp

Kashmir Great Lakes | Kashmir

Trek Backpack Fee

₹ 600

GST Fee

5%

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Overview

This Seven day high alititude monsoon trek situated in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Covers approximately 70–75 km, starting from our base camp in Sonamarg and ending at Naranag. Firstly, during this trek you can see alpine lakes as well as shepherd huts, spiritual places around this trek, many glaciers covered with snow, beautiful meadows and high mountain passes, which are really like heaven situated at an altitude of around 13,800 ft, this trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks which gives you thrill and spiritual energy, which connect you to nature. These alpine lakes are the main attraction during this trek. It passes through some of the most beautiful alpine lakes, like Vishansar, Krishnansar, and Gangabal. Hindus who associate Vishansar Lake with Lord Vishnu, Krishnansar with Lord Krishna, and Gangabal Lake with Maa Ganga, which fills spiritual energy during the trek. If you believe in spirituality, this trek is absolutely one of the best trek for you. Every lake has a unique color and its own beautiful view. As we mentioned a image given below.

“Kashmir Great Lakes Trek scenic mountain landscape with alpine lakes and green meadows”
“Kashmir Great Lakes Trek scenic mountain landscape with alpine lakes and green meadows”

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Highlights ?

This Trek is a mixer of scenic beauty, high mountain passes, and vast meadows. This 7-days Himalayan adventure trek takes you through changing landscapes every single day, making it one of the most diverse treks in the country.

  • Cross high-altitude passes above 13,800 ft.

  • Trek through the stunning meadows of Nichnai & Satsar passes.

  • The clear-crystal Alpine lakes like Vishansar, Krishansar & Gadsar.

  • Experience panoramic views of snow-covered Himalayas peaks.

  • Walk through colorful wildflower valleys during the monsoon season.

  • 75 km scenic trekking trail from Sonamarg to Naranag.

Difficulties You May Face During Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.

The Kashmir Great Lake trek is a moderate to difficult trek. This trek demands a long day of walking so be prepared mentally as well as physically. You have to cover 75 km in just 7 days. Here are some of the challenges and factors that make it a moderate to difficult trek in terms of difficulty.

Long Hiking Distance in Each Day.

During the Trek, trekkers have to walk about 12 kms per day, which can be difficult for some trekkers. This long journey feature of this trek is great for experienced trekkers but can be challenging for beginners. This daily long journey cannot be reduced because all the alpine lakes are located at a certain distance from each other and the passes that come during the trekking require almost a full day of hiking program to cross them and rest after that, otherwise more than two days will have to be included to cross each pass and a new alpine lake will be seen every two days. In this case, the total trek duration directly doubles and the total cost of the package will also increase a lot.

The entire route has several steep ascents and descents.

Kashmir Great Lakes will be hiking up and down every day. While these ascents and descents help in acclimatization, but the trail takes you to 13,100 ft (Nichinai Pass) on the second day itself which increases the chances of AMS and breathing problems more than acclimatization.

Crossing three difficult passes.

Though the passes are naturally ascended and then descended, but these passes during the trek are described separately due to their special nature.

“Beautiful view of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek route in Sonamarg region”
“Beautiful view from Kashmir Great Lakes Trek in Sonamarg region”

The 3 Mountain Passes on The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.

Crossing these passes is one of the most exciting parts of the trek, as each pass reveals a new landscape and leads trekkers to another beautiful valley filled with stunning lakes.

  • Nichinai Pass.

The starting point of the Trek is Shitkadi Point located near Sonmarg and from Shitkadi to Nichinai Camp is a 6 to 7 hour trek for acclimatization, however gaining more than 900 m of altitude in a single day may be a bit difficult for beginners. Next day trekkers have to climb up to Nichinai Pass and gain more than 1200 m of altitude in these two days. Some trekkers may be affected by AMS at Nichinai pass but to minimize this effect we do not stay for long at this point and immediately descend down the valley towards Vishansar Lake.

  • Gadsar Pass.

This is the toughest part of the trek and has to be crossed on the fourth day of the trek. The climb is of about 40 degrees and takes about 2 to 3 hours to cross. This is where the physical fitness of the trekkers is really tested. Also, problems like breathing problems and AMS are most common in this part as trekkers reach a height of 4,210 m. However, by the fourth day you will be acclimatized to a great extent, so there is no need to panic too much.

  • Zaj Pass.

This is the second-last day of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. On the way to Zaj Pass, you have to cross boulders, and you will find a 40-minute long section filled with huge boulders. Also, there is no path, so overall it creates a great challenge that can be tiring for some trekkers. If you're not at your wits' end or mentally prepared, it can be even more difficult for you.

How to Reach Kashmir Great Lakes Trek ?

The easiest way to get there is to fly to Srinagar, where Himalaya Shelter team will meet you. From Srinagar, you will drive to Sonamarg and spend the night there. It is around 3 to 4 hours drive through a scenic route from Srinagar to Sonamarg. The trekking itself begins from Day 2, where you start the hike from Sitkari village near Sonamarg. From there it’s a 7-day trek through the most beautiful part of Kashmir. Although there is no direct railway station in Sonamarg, the nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station. Traveling by road is another easy way to reach the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Visitors can take buses or private taxis from Jammu to Srinagar via the scenic Jammu–Srinagar Highway.

Why Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is So Popular.

  • Himalayan treks where the scenery remains similar throughout the route, this trek surprises you every single day. You cross high mountain passes, walk beside clear crystal alpine lakes, and meadows grasslands surrounded by high peaks.

  • Another reason for its popularity is the perfect balance of challenge and beauty. It gives trekkers a true high-altitude experience without requiring technical climbing skills. The trail is ideal for both beginners with good fitness and experienced trekkers looking for breathtaking scenery.

“Panoramic landscape of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek with mountains and meadow”
“Panoramic landscape of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek with mountains and meadow”

Best Time for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

The best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is from July to September. The weather is pleasant with bright summer skies in the day are bright and pleasant in the nights. The average temperature can range from 10-15 degrees in the day to 0-5 degrees at night.

  • In July:

Most people prefer to do this Trek in July as it is cloudless and the surroundings are more visible. In July, the snow on the passes melts to a large extent and the valleys below the passes are colourful with a variety of flowers blooming.

  • In August:

In August it is preferred for those who like to trek with light drizzling rain. At this time, the monsoons have fully arrived in the valley and one you can enjoy shower type rains many times during the trek.

The surrounding valleys look like a paradise when the blooming flowers and the soft green grasslands are covered with a light mist and you will be so excited to see this that you will start thinking of staying here for a longer time. You will find some frozen pieces of ice in the lakes. The mountains and lakes naturally look very dramatic at this time.

  • In September:

The region where the trek is located receives less rainfall and has perfect weather conditions for trekking in monsoon. This is an ideal time to see the beautiful Alpine landscapes of Kashmir lakes, while other areas may be negatively affected by heavy rains and closures. Due to the difficulty of the route and the requirement of trail permits, it is important to join trekking groups organized by Himalaya Shelter.

Why Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience Trek.

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is not just a trek it is a journey through out the Himalayas imagine waking up beside at  alpine lakes see the surrounded snow-clad peaks, with fresh air mountain and endless silence. This is not a dream  this is Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.In just 7 days, you cross high mountain passes walk through vast green meadows, and camp beside some of the most beautiful alpine lakes  like Vishansar, Krishansar, and Gadsar which connect you to spiritual energy. Every single day landscape changes grasslands, wildflower valleys, rocky ridges, and crystal-clear lakes reflecting the sky.

Trek Map of Kashmir Great Lakes

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (KGL) route map showcases the enchanting trail through the kashmir Himalayas, leading to the picturesque trek. The map highlights the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, offering a captivating adventure for trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Detailed route map of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek designed by Himalaya Shelter.
Detailed route map of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek designed by Himalaya Shelter.

 

Things to Carry for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.

Packing smartly is essential. Some must-carry items include:

  1. Waterproof trekking shoes.

  2. Warm Clothes (temperature drops at night)

  3. Rain jacket or Raincourt.

  4. Good quality backpack.

  5. Water bottles.

  6. Personal medicines.

  7. Sunscreen and sunglasses.

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Starting & Ending Point?

Start with our base camp in Sonamarg and end at Naranag, the trek covers a distance of about 75 km. The duration of the trek depends on the itinerary selected by trekkers. Himalaya Shelter provides a safe and perfect itinerary to explore yours trek.

“Kashmir Great Lakes Trek hikers walking through alpine valley and lake”
“Kashmir Great Lakes Trek hikers walking through alpine valley and lake”

Why Choose Himalaya Shelter for Your Kashmir Trek?

Himalaya Shelter gives you a package that anyone can complete at an affordable price. One can join our fixed departure groups or create their own dynamic or customized packages to enhance the trekking experience of Kashmir holiday plans. We have expertise in designing the perfect itinerary that aligns with the physical fitness of the trekkers so that trekkers can enjoy the true beauty of the trek and reduce the difficulty as much as possible. We have been making the adventure more memorable with our good-quality services of transportation, accommodation, hygienic food, knowledgeable guides, camping and cooking equipment, safety facilities, etc. Apart from this you can also do Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek & Pir Panjal Trek also a better choice if you are planning to visit in jammu.

More Information

Why Trek with Himalaya Shelter.

Mountain-centric & Local Roots

Started by a trekker born in the Himalayas (Bachan Rana), most of their team are locals. That means real terrain knowledge and instincts on the trail.
We operate in regions like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir & Ladakh — strong ground support matters at altitude.

Safety Above All

  • Certified trek leaders trained in CPR & first aid 

  • Zero fatality record for over a decade

  •  Daily health checks and acclimatisation focus

  •  Oxygen support if needed

These aren’t just promises — these are real safety systems, not just marketing words.

Small & Personal Groups

Most big companies run 20–30+ people. Himalaya Shelter usually keeps groups small (8–12) — so guides can care about you, not just the batch.

Small groups = better experience | More attention | Better bonding | Less chaos | Faster response if something goes sideways

Flexible & Fair Policies

If bad weather or health stops you from finishing, we let you rejoin the same trek later without extra fees — that’s rare.

Food & Comfort That People Talk About

Many trekkers specifically praise the meals, tents, and service — not something every operator manages well at high altitude.

Customised Treks

We tailor your trek based on your:

  • Fitness level

  • Group type

  • Preferred pace or dates

  • Select your cuisine

Real customisation is not standard everywhere. 

Responsible & Eco-Friendly Trekking
We follow responsible trekking practices to minimise environmental impact and respect local communities. Supporting local staff and village economies is a core part of our philosophy.

In short, Himalaya Shelter feels less like a company and more like a mountain family — deeply rooted in the Himalayas and committed to making your trek safe, personal, and memorable.

Quick Itinerary of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Day 1: Drive from Srinagar to Gagangir
Day 2: Trek from Sonmarg camp to Nichinai Camp
Day 3: Trek from Nichinai to Vishnusar & Kishansar Lakes via Nichinai Pass
Day 4: Trek form Vishanasar Lake to Gadsar via Gadsar pass
Day 5: Trek from Gadsar to Satsar
Day 6: Trek from Satsar to Gangabal Lake and Nund Kol Lake via Zaj Pass
Day 7: Trek from Gangabal lake to Naranag & Drive to Srinagar
Day 8: Buffer day (You have to pay us Rs. 2829 INR per day (Plus 5% GST) if you use the buffer day.

 

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Itinerary

Drive: 81 km, 2-3 hrs

Trek: 0.5 km to reach the campsite

Altitude: 5,220 ft (1,590 m) – 9,022 ft (2,750 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Dinner

We leave Srinagar around 1 PM and reach Sonamarg by 4:30 PM, following the Sind River. Once we cross over to the true right of the river at Wayil Bridge, which is 25 KM ahead of Srinagar, we encounter the Anchar lake of Srinagar on the way. The drive is a gradual climb all the way to Sonamarg, and from an altitude of 1,600 meters at Srinagar, we reach a modest altitude of slightly over 2,700 meters at Sonamarg. We will camp overnight at Shitkadi and will have to walk a short distance of 500 meters to reach our campsite.

Your trek leader will inform you in detail about the entire trek, giving you all the details that you need. The campsite is located next to a stream offering a stunning view of Thajiwas Glacier. There is no sound other than the gentle music of the river.

Kashmir great lakes trek

Trek: 11 km, 5-6 hrs

Altitude: 9,022 ft (2,750 m) – 11,811 ft (3,600 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

From our camp at Shitkadi, we start the trek towards the Nichinai camp. Throughout the day, we follow the Nichinai stream, which is on our right.

After a 1.5 KM trek upstream, we arrive at a meadow with maple trees dotting the landscape, along with pines. The trail continues to climb up the ridge, and as we gain more altitude, the view towards Sonamarg becomes quite picturesque.

The maples continue all the way up to the top of the ridge, lining the eastern slope of the ridge. As we reach the top of the ridge, the place is called Table Top, one of the highest points, providing spectacular views of both the Sonmarg Valley and the Amarnath Valley. From here you can engage the local people and shepherds. It is also a lunch point and you can eat Maggie and other local goodies placed by the shops around the Table Top after that an open grassland paves the way that gradually descends to some distance. To the west of the grassland, silver birch (Bhojpatra) trees stand tall, while to the east, the maples can still be seen. This meadow, known as Shekdur, runs almost 1.5 KM long. As we approach its end, the trail then enters the forest of silver birch for almost 1 KM before the treeline finally comes to an end.

Henceforth, we continue on the trail marked by patches of grassland and stone all the way to Nichinai. We are surrounded by tall mountains on either side and towards our back lie the snow-covered mountains far across the Sonamarg valley. We will reach Nichinai by early evening and set up the camps.

Kashmir great lakes trek

 

Trek: 13 km, 6 hrs

Altitude: 11,811 ft (3,600 m) – 13,100 ft (3,993 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

The trek from Nichinai camp starts with an ascent to the Nichinai Pass. The altitude of Nichinai Pass is around 13,100 Feet, which is quite close to the altitude of Hampta Pass or the Sar Pass, and higher than Kuari Pass. So, take pride in the fact that so early into the trek, you have already crossed over a pass. The ascent takes a good couple of hours to reach the pass from the campsite at a moderate pace.

As soon as we cross over the Nichinai Pass, we can see a small lake at the base of the mountain to our left. There is another larger lake, almost 500 meters in length, around 2 KM ahead, but it cannot be seen unless we climb up to the ridge to our right.

The trail continues downhill from the pass and enters grassland with a gentle slope after an hour of descent. From here, the trail is gentle up to the Vishansar Lake. It’s a few KM before we reach the base of the lake and our campsite. The lake will require another 20 mins to reach as it is slightly higher in altitude. Kishansar is further ahead of the Vishansar lake and higher in altitude still.

The lakes are quite large, and while the Vishansar runs 1.1 KM long and a little over 700 meters wide, the Kishansar is slightly smaller at 900 meters long and 550 meters wide. The latter’s shape is more of a triangular one with an inward arc on one side.

After reaching the campsite which is near the Vishansar Lake or below the Vishansar Lake, you can spend some time over there around the lake, this campsite is considered one of the best campsites of this KGL trek

Kashmir great lakes trek

Trek: 16 km, 7-8 hrs

Altitude: 13,100 ft (3,993 m) – 13, 813 ft (4,210 m) – 12,500 ft (3,810 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

The trek from Vishansar to Gadsar is beautiful but demanding. Today’s trek will take you across the highest point of the entire trek, at a modest altitude of 4,210 meters at the Gadsar Pass.

The trail from the Vishansar campsite continues to the right, with Kishansar lake on our left as we cross it. The trail then starts climbing with a steep ascent all the way to the pass, and the trail that cuts across the mountain in zig-zags can be seen from far away.

It will take around 2 hours to reach the Gadsar Pass. As we climb higher, we are rewarded with magnificent views of the two lakes as we turn our backs. Take some time to capture these moments in your mind, as you will cherish them for the rest of your life.

As you come down from the Gadsar Pass, you will be amazed to see the beauty of Gadasr Lake. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes of this trek and you can enjoy your packed lunch here while admiring the scenery.

Kashmir great lakes trek

From the Pass we can see a few smaller lakes and far off in the distance is the Gadsar lake.

Trek: 12 km, 6 hrs

Altitude: 12,500 ft (3,810 m) – 12,007 ft (3,660 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

The trek from Gadsar to Satsar starts with an initial steep hike that will take a little over an hour, After that, gradually trek on the ridge. While passing that ridge, you will witness the majestic Nanga Parbat (8,126). The trail then opens to plain meadows and a water stream. You can have your packed lunch here. Afterward, gradually ascend to rocky terrain, and after some time, you will reach the Satsar campsite

This will be a relatively easier day compared to other trek days. The KGL Trek is indeed a trek with long walking distance but today, this trek will offer you a good time to rest/explore.

Kashmir great lakes trek

Trek: 9 km, 5-6 hr

Altitude: 12,007 ft (3,660 m) – 11,482 ft (3,500 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

The trek starts with an ascent to the Zaj Pass, the trail to the Zaj Pass you have to cross the boulder’s path

The altitude of the Zaj Pass is lower than the former two passes we crossed before along the trail with an altitude of 13,228 feet, it takes 2 hours to reach the pass from the pass you can see Gangbal and Nandkul lakes

The view from the pass is very beautiful The trail descends steeply and then gradually descends, making it enjoyable to walk upon.

Kashmir great lakes trek

Trek: 13 km, 5-6 hrs

Drive: 50 km, 2 hrs

Altitude: 11,482 ft (3,500 m) – 7,447 ft (2,270 m)

Meals: Breakfast

On the last trekking day, after half an hour of trekking, we reached the Army check post where it took half an hour to check the documents (Adhar Card) of all the trekkers.

Then, we move ahead while the trail oscillates between minor ascents and descents up to halfway, after which there is a steep descent amid pine forests all the way to Naranag. Our beautiful KGL Trek ends here.

We arrive in Srinagar between 5 and 7 PM, depending on the start time from Gangabal. We are sure that you will get so many pleasant memories to cherish by embarking on the Trek with Himalaya Shelter.

Kashmir great lakes trek

Buffer Day: You have to pay us Rs. 2929 INR per day (Plus 5% GST) if you use the buffer day. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.

7 Beautiful Lakes in Kashmir Trek.

Seven Alpine Lakes During the Trek:

  1. Vishansar Lake
  2. Krishnasar or Kisanasar Lake
  3. Gadsar Lake
  4. Satsar Lake
  5. Gangabal Lake
  6. Nundkol Lake
  7. Dal Sar Lake
  • Vishansar Lake

Vishansar Lake is one of the calmest glacial lakes in the Great Himalayas region. As the name refers, “Vishnu Sar” is derived from the Sanskrit words which mean “Lake of Vishnu”, a Hindu God. The lake itself sits at an altitude of 3,710 meters. This lake was created by glaciers a few decades ago.

Over time, it is maintained by melting snow from nearby mountains and when the water of lake overflows, the strem eventually joins the Kishanganga River. People around the area has deep belief that Lord Vishnu blessed this lake and many sages, saints and monkeys used to meditate nearby the lake.

  • Krishansar Lake

Krishansar Lake is also a glacial lake, which is very close to Vishansar Lake but this lake sits at slightly higher altitude of about 3,800 meters. The lake is surrounded by high mountains and lush green valleys and the interesting thing about this lake is its colour which shines green like an emerald gem. In all seasons, the lake is frozen except in summers. In summers the lake and its surroundings are full of life with vivid flowers and animals. The local belief is that it is a divine lake and the water heals and gives wisdom.

  • Gadsar Lake

Gadsar Lake is famous as the “Lake of Flowers”, because the lake is surrounded by colourful wild flowers, and the lake also gives shelter to countless fish, as the name of the lake also means “Lakes of Fishes”. It is also a glacial lake which sits at an altitude of 3,600 meters, and the stream flow goes down and joins the Gadsar River. In the local legends, the lake is the “Gateway to Heaven”. 

  • Satsar Lakes

Satsar Lakes, as the name suggests, is a group of seven lakes; all the lakes sit at an altitude of 3,600 meters, and these lakes are also formed by glaciers. The local belief is that the seven lakes represent the seven stages of life. Each lake is unique in its own way, although together they form a unique formation.

  • Gangabal Lake

Gangabal Lake is known as the Ganges of Kashmir. It is also a glacial lake, which sits at an altitude of 3,570 meters above sea level. This is a sacred lake which offers holy baths, and the overflow stream goes down from the mountains and valleys, which merge into the Sindh River. Gangabal Lake is one of the holiest and most respected lakes in the Hindu community.

  • Nundkol Lake

Nundkol Lake is also formed by a melting glacier and sits at an altitude of 3,500 meters. It is very close and similar to Gangabal Lake, although it is quite small and peaceful. This makes it a perfect place for meditation. The streams of the lake join the Gangabal Lake when the water overflows.

  • Dal Sar Lake

Dal Sar Lake is also formed by melting glaciers like the others, but this lake is very untouched, which makes it very quiet, and it is surrounded by rugged landscapes. Dal Sar, which means “Guardian Lake”, according to local legends, the lake protects the nearby areas from every disaster and the outer world.

How to Reach the Starting Point of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

The starting point of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is in Sonamarg, a beautiful hill town located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu & Kashmir. Sonamarg is well connected to Srinagar, which make it easily accessible from different parts of India.

  • By Air

The nearest airport to the base camp is Srinagar International Airport (also known as Sheikh ul-Alam Airport). This airport is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Once you land at the airport, you can either take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle (depending on your budget) to Sonamarg, which is the starting point of the Kashmir lake trek. The drive from Srinagar Airport to Sonamarg is about 80 kilometers and usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, but this can vary depending on the weather and road conditions.

  • By Road

If you prefer a road trip, Sonamarg is easily accessible by road from Srinagar. It is about 80 kilometers away, and the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours. You can either drive yourself or hire a taxi from Srinagar. The route is totally scenic and offers breathtaking views of the Kashmir Valley. So, you can enjoy a pleasant drive with your companions. But road conditions and traffic might affect your travel time, so check it frequently.

  • By Railway

The nearest railway station to the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is in Jammu. And, Jammu is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, so you can easily catch a train from anywhere in India to reach Jammu. Once you arrive in Jammu, you have two options to reach the base camp: you can either take a direct bus or hire a taxi to drive you to Sonamarg. The journey by road from Jammu to Sonamarg will take a few hours.

How to Stay Safe During the Trek?

When trekking the Kashmir Great Lakes, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some important safety factors to keep in mind during the high-altitude trekking:

  • Take It Slow: The trek takes you to high altitudes, reaching up to 13,715 feet. This can put trekkers at risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). So, it is essential to allow your body time to acclimatize by taking it slow and staying hydrated. You must avoid rushing, especially on the first few days, and take rest days if necessary. If you feel symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it is important to descend to lower altitudes and seek medical help.
  • Check Weather Conditions: The weather in the Kashmir region can be unpredictable, especially in higher altitudes. So it is better to be prepared for sudden temperature drops, rain, or even snow, depending on the season. You must wear the right clothing—layered clothing, waterproof jackets, and sturdy trekking shoes to walk safely. Kindly check the weather forecast before heading out and plan your monsoon trek.
  • Guides and Support Team: It is highly recommended to trek with experienced guides and a support team from the Himalaya Shelter who are familiar with the trail, the terrain, and how to respond to emergencies. They can help navigate difficult areas easily and keep you safe from potential risks such as landslides, sudden weather changes, or tricky terrain.
  • KGL Trekking Equipment: Proper gear is crucial for your safety. So, when you are about to start, double check that you have high-quality trekking poles, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a good sleeping bag for colder nights. Your equipment should be well-tested, especially for rain or snow, as the weather can flip anytime.
  • Take Snacks and Drink Enough Water: Water sources along the Kashmir trek are clean and fresh, but always carry your own water bottle and snacks. As dehydration can lead to fatigue and AMS, so drink plenty of water during the hike. It is also recommended to always eat high-energy foods like nuts, fruits, and energy bars to keep your energy up.

What to Pack for your Trek?

Here are the essentials you need to include in your backpack for the trek:

Essentials
Descriptions
Included/Excluded in Package (T&C)
Food High-energy foods not heavy in weight. energy bars, fruited meat rolls, freeze-dried beverages, and snacks Included
Water Hydration systems or water bottles are useful for providing sufficient water during the trek. Especially on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Included
Sleepwear Sleeping bags for cold temperatures and commonly used in areas that have a rating of sub-zero. Included
Shelter Tents or portable shelters because of the weather while in the course of a camping activity. Included
Clothing Outfits that ensure you are warm in Himalayan Treks. Appropriate weather apparels such as moisture transporting warmer wears, and raincoats. Be fully prepared with essential clothing when going on a Himalayan trek. Excluded
Cooking Kit Small and light weight stoves and fuel, cooking vessels and utensils. Included
Guide The guide's profile includes activities such as leadership, safety, information sharing, pace setting, encouragement, environmental stewardship, logistics coordination, and clear communication Included
Survival Equipment Mainly consists of a First-Aid-Kit, rope, oxygen cylinders, and other gear useful in an emergency circumstance Included
Navigation Tools like maps in details, compass, or any GPS devices for the purpose of providing navigation or even planning of routes Included
Personal Medications Trekkers should carry personal medications and inform the guide about any diseases before starting the trek. Excluded
Flashlight Portable lights such as headlamps or torches for when it is at night or any other poorly illuminated environment. Included

Mandatory Backpacking List for Kashmir Great Lakes

Mandatory Backpacking List for Kashmir Great Lakes

 

How to Get Fit for The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.

To overcome the difficulty level of KGL Trek, it requires strong cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall fitness. Incorporate these exercises into your routine to increase strength, stability, and stamina, which will help you tackle the difficult terrain of the trail at high altitudes.

 

Overview

Overview

Foundation

Foundation

Strength & Building

Strength & Building

 

Power & Stamina

Power & Stamina

Endurance & Recovery

Endurance & Recovery

 

Inclusions & Exclusions

Trek Package Inclusions:

Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you, creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region, whilst on the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.

  • Transport support from Srinagr to Srinagar ( Pick-up location: Nishat Garden, Srinagar )
  • Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
    On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
  • Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
  • Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
  • Permission  -  Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
  • Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
  • Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
  • Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.

Exclusions

  • Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
  • Travel Expenses -  Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
    From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
  • Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups. 
  • Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 600 per bag per day.
  • Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
  • Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader. 
  • Anything apart from inclusions
  • Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.

Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 

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From

₹20500 $228

per person